The Federal Administrative Court of Switzerland has denied the asylum request of Behnam Vali Heydarian, an Iranian refugee who is also a candidate for Jewish conversion. Known as Ben Vali, he is now facing the threat of deportation to Georgia, and potentially back to Iran, raising serious concerns about his safety.
Background of Behnam Vali Heydarian
In previous conversations with media outlets, Vali outlined the transnational threats he experienced from Iran while in Georgia. A committed proponent of Christianity and a noted figure within the refugee community, Vali attracted the attention of the Iranian regime due to his Bible distribution efforts and later for his pro-Israel sentiments, especially in light of the recent conflict starting on October 7. His outspoken advocacy has made him a target, putting him in a precarious situation.
Vali has reported multiple instances of assault and has faced direct threats regarding his safety. He described how his accounts were unjustly frozen and indicated he felt pressured by an alleged member of Georgia’s security services to remain silent about his advocacy. These actions reflect a broader pattern of oppression faced by those advocating for Israel or converting from Islam in Iran.
Community Support in Georgia
Mikheil Grishashvili, a prominent Jewish community leader in Georgia, noted Vali’s active involvement in the local Jewish community since 2023. Grishashvili described him as a diligent, kind, and dedicated individual who embraced his Jewish identity and became increasingly engaged with the community over time.
Risks of Deportation to Iran
Vali recognizes the grim prospects of returning to Iran, where he fears execution due to his religious conversion and vocal support for Israel. Fleeing to Switzerland on a business visa, Vali sought asylum, believing he would find safety. However, despite entering Switzerland legally, authorities rejected his application, claiming he had fled from a “safe” country, disregarding the legitimate threats he faced in Georgia.
His appeals have gone unanswered, with Swiss officials maintaining that they had completed their due diligence in assessing his situation. The State Secretariat for Migration has claimed that Georgia is a safe environment for him, leaving him without refuge in Europe.
Future Concerns and Call for Intervention
Vali has also encountered an entry ban preventing his return to Switzerland, which hinders his options for finding refuge elsewhere in the European Union. He has attempted to reach out to Israeli authorities, hoping that his pro-Israel stances and efforts to embrace Judaism might garner support or protection, but has yet to receive a response.
As the situation escalates, the international community must take notice of Vali’s plight and the broader implications for those escaping repressive regimes. The consequences of his potential deportation are severe, highlighting the pressing need for urgent humanitarian intervention in such cases to protect individuals like Behnam Vali Heydarian.